tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24338855638107923492024-03-13T09:54:14.871+09:00Little LessonsSharing the experience of being a parent, a foreigner, a life-long learner.
☆Train a child in the way he should go,
and when he is old he will not turn from it.☆
♡若者を歩むべき道の初めに教育せよ。年老いてもそこからそれることがないであろう。♡ Proverbs 22:6Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger447125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-89299287896518920792020-12-04T09:17:00.002+09:002020-12-04T09:48:39.155+09:00Beyond Picture Books: Books About JapanWhile there are many <a href="https://proverbsch22vs6.blogspot.com/2010/10/tokyo-japan-books.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">great picture books</a> which highlight points of life in Japan, what about when you are ready to dive deeper?
Here are some of our favorite:<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mw2vWeHNItc/X8mAHfTq4QI/AAAAAAAAa8U/K69ZzL2qR-MHZNXj4bcKRvTLCYCdkPDeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0247%2B2.heic" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mw2vWeHNItc/X8mAHfTq4QI/AAAAAAAAa8U/K69ZzL2qR-MHZNXj4bcKRvTLCYCdkPDeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0247%2B2.heic" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div> 英語で紹介する日本 Experience Japan Series
<a href="https://amzn.to/3qsOAGj" target="_blank">英語で紹介する日本 Experience Japan</a>
A bilingual books with photos and easy to understand information.</div><div><br /></div><div>
<a href="https://amzn.to/2VAEF3C" target="_blank">Japanese Customs and Culture in English イラストで解る! 英語で日本のしきたりと文化を伝える本</a>
This book goes into manners and cultural practices/traditions for various situations.</div><div><br /></div><div>
<a href="https://amzn.to/2VAoq6u" target="_blank">An Illustrated History of Japan</a>
Great for visual learners of history.</div><div><br /></div><div>
<a href="https://amzn.to/3lER0hN" target="_blank">The Complete Illustrated Guide to Japanese Systems 全図解 日本のしくみ</a> [政治・経済・司法編]
A bilingual Book for those who are trying to figure out how things work in Japan. </div><div><br /></div><div>
<a href="https://amzn.to/36A28YS" target="_blank">Chonological Guide to Japanese History 英語で読む日本史</a> A "must" for students - and their parents who are trying to catch up ;-)
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-65770822340872240172020-02-29T20:33:00.002+09:002020-02-29T20:33:34.485+09:00Hand Washing Help<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7wA2PtJsLg8/XlpDhKYaBNI/AAAAAAAAahk/nlHXiD_mT_QiZGqj_N2uiziZyIkQiytGwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wash%2Byour%2Bhands.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7wA2PtJsLg8/XlpDhKYaBNI/AAAAAAAAahk/nlHXiD_mT_QiZGqj_N2uiziZyIkQiytGwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/wash%2Byour%2Bhands.png" width="200" /></a></div>
One of the most effective things we can do to fight the flu, covid19, strep and many other common germs is to wash our hands.<br />
<br />
You may wonder though,<br />
If it is as simple as that,<br />
How do we make it a habit?<br />
<br />
Making something a habit takes time and even if it is a habit we still will forget at times of not wash properly. <br />
<br />
One of the greatest things we can do as parents and teachers is to help kids create good habits.<br />
<br />
Zilla, Mega and I happened across some fun and interesting hand washing videos on youtube. We've also found some free printable posters and a science experiment worth trying. Take a look!<br />
<br />
Science:<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pFww_EaLiY" target="_blank">Bathroom Hygiene Myth</a> by MythBusters<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBGsoimPXZg" target="_blank">How Germs Spread</a> by Cincinnati Children's<br />
<br />
Songs:<br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/5jhwyAsZAvo" target="_blank">WashYourHandsingTon</a> by Washington State Department of Health<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmMGwO4N0Vc" target="_blank">Wash 'Em</a> by Jefferson Health<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_j-19iWMn8" target="_blank">We're All About Those Hands</a> by Lake Health<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1rHk2xTLBM" target="_blank">Hey Mickey - Go Wash Your Hands</a> by Heritage Village<br />
Japanese Version <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrUfXlvNztg" target="_blank">お願いお願いかめさん</a> English Version - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyvIx61OWko" target="_blank">Foaming Hand Washing Song</a><span id="goog_1975606639"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1975606640"></span><br />
<br />
Other hand washing links:<br />
<a href="http://www.kotobaandsign.info/wash-hands.html" target="_blank">"I Wash My Hands" poster & song</a><br />
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/fact-sheets.html" target="_blank">CDC Hand Washing Fact Sheets</a><br />
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/posters.html" target="_blank">CDC Hand Washing Posters for Kids</a><br />
<a href="https://www.sciencealert.com/this-simple-experiment-with-bread-is-a-genius-way-to-get-kids-to-wash-their-hands" target="_blank">Hand Washing Science Experiment</a><br />
<a href="https://learning-center.homesciencetools.com/article/glo-germ-projects/" target="_blank">Experiments with Glo Germ Powder</a><br />
<br />
Maybe tomorrow we'll research masks?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This blog sometimes uses affiliate links for Amazon, Kotoba & Sign and a few other sites. Commission earned goes toward my tea and a book or two. As you can tell from the bookshelves in the back of the pics, we are always on the lookout for another good book. Thanks for your support!</span></i></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-903383036881486022020-02-29T19:47:00.001+09:002020-02-29T19:47:45.597+09:00Strive to Thrive<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LviP2WivjE0/Xlo70j75ODI/AAAAAAAAahY/xW5fMQHVC6IYa4vEPmVr4vVRoEpsUrbwQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/thrive.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LviP2WivjE0/Xlo70j75ODI/AAAAAAAAahY/xW5fMQHVC6IYa4vEPmVr4vVRoEpsUrbwQCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/thrive.png" width="200" /></a></div>
As the situation heats up with the new/novel corona virus, now known as covid19, we find ourselves once again facing unknown challenges and searching for ways to support and encourage each other. Way back when, this blog was started as a way to share ideas and inspire. <br />
<br />
A couple of years ago life happened - both time and the motivation to blog fadded. However, at this point in time, I'm once again seeing a need for an easy way to share helpful information so I'm resurrecting the Little Lessons with Zilla and Mega blog.<br />
<br />
Zilla and Mega are in elementary school now and due to covid19 they will have an extra long spring break. Like many moms in the affected countries, this means I have to organize things for them to do so we don't drive each other nuts while we're essentially on house arrest.<br />
<br />
I've been very blessed to get great ideas and advice from families who began their time in lockdown before us. We also have our own experiences from past near lockdown situations so I hope to blend those experiences with new ideas so that we can thrive, not just survive, in this time of unknowns.<br />
<br />
As this blog has been dormant for a while some of the old links are no longer active. I hope to go through and fix that where possible. Patience and understanding is appreciated!<br />
<br />
There are also affiliate links with Amazon, and a few other sites. Commission earned goes toward my tea and a book or two. As you can tell from the bookshelves in the back of the pics we are always on the lookout for another good book!<br />
<br />
Thank you for your readership, comments and ideas. I pray we can to support, encourage and inspire each other!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-33434859355702329702017-08-13T01:50:00.002+09:002017-08-13T01:50:56.539+09:00Breakfast With a View<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gBr0gMWpWxk/WY8toI25xfI/AAAAAAAAZTc/us3I2vL-3Kko0kWnmPVm_s85ef-i6BYwACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/LutherNatureQuote.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gBr0gMWpWxk/WY8toI25xfI/AAAAAAAAZTc/us3I2vL-3Kko0kWnmPVm_s85ef-i6BYwACK4BGAYYCw/s320/LutherNatureQuote.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
One tradition we have is getting bread from eh local bread shop for breakfast on Saturday morning.<br />
It has become a treasured tradition as our weekends are often hectic. The Saturday breakfast is a chance to touch base, talk about the past week and go over weekend schedules. <br />
<br />
This we aren't all together but we are still enjoying fresh made pastries. Having a beautiful place to eat adds to the flavor of the food. This morning's scones are from the local Farmer's Market and happen to be made by a family friend.<br />
<br />
The Luther quote comes to mind as I spend time in the garden and caring for the yard. It is perhaps a small taste of what Adam and Eve did in caring for the Garden of Eden?<br />
<br />
When looking for a source for the quote I was surprised to find that the Lutheran Witness #36 has a selection of letters, one of which includes this quote from 1530. "In spring he loves to direct her attention to the little points and tufts of life peeping everywhere from the brown earth or the bare branches Who he said that had never witnessed a springtime would have guessed two months since that these lifeless branches held concealed all that hidden power of life It will be thus with us at the resurrection God writes His Gospel not in the Bible alone but in trees and flowers and clouds and stars."<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://books.google.com/books?id=meIpAAAAYAAJ&dq=God%20writes%20the%20gospel%20not%20in%20the%20bible%20alone%20but%20on%20the%20trees%20and%20flowers&pg=PA106&output=embed" style="border: 0px;" width="500"></iframe>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-45219807078288545152016-07-15T12:13:00.001+09:002016-07-15T12:13:17.897+09:00Summer Homework - Again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This is the 5th year of summer homework for us and the 3rd year of elementary school summer homework.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SkLdK8Kli20/V4hUzAEmmhI/AAAAAAAAZAQ/ndF-dWRXIok/s640/blogger-image--810408861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SkLdK8Kli20/V4hUzAEmmhI/AAAAAAAAZAQ/ndF-dWRXIok/s640/blogger-image--810408861.jpg"></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-58513875180479230532016-07-13T10:55:00.002+09:002016-07-13T10:55:48.213+09:00Beach Days with KidsOne of the things we love to do the most in summer is visit the beach.<br />
A successful beach trip, especially when traveling by train, is partially the result of careful planning.<br />
<br />
I saw this video on Facebook this week and it reminded me of some of my favorite tips that I've received. Here's our<b> Top 5</b>!<br />
- Keep a bottle of clean water for washing sand out of eyes.<br />
- Use baby powder to help dry/wipe sandy feet.<br />
- Store sand and beach toys in a mesh laundry bag<br />
- Pack quick-dry towels so they will dry between uses<br />
- Pack healthy food - fruits and veggies - with bottles of frozen drinking water<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FawestruckTV%2Fvideos%2F1734008090208111%2F&show_text=0&width=560" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
Our beach packing list usually includes:<br />
<br />
<b>Wet/sandy bag</b> (big Ikea plastic bag)<br />
- Inflatable inner tubes for the kids<br />
- Kid's lifejackets<br />
- Sand toys in mesh bag<br />
- Small sun shade tent<br />
- Bottle of water for washing sand from eyes<br />
<br />
<b>In the Cooler</b><br />
- Frozen Nalgene bottles of water<br />
- Fresh fruit and veggies cut and in baggies or empty milk cartons<br />
- wet washcloth for wiping hands<br />
<br />
<b>Backpack</b><br />
- Suntan lotion<br />
- Phone (in a water/sand proof bag)<br />
- Change of clothes for end of day (in a plastic bag that will hold wet clothes when done)<br />
- More snacks<br />
- Towels<br />
<br />
Looking for a beach? Here are some links to information & even some example itineraries from moms!<br />
<a href="http://kajapan.org/places/atamisunbeach/" target="_blank">Atami Sun Beach, Shizuoka</a><br />
<a href="http://kajapan.org/places/onjuku/" target="_blank">Onjuku in Chiba</a><br />
<a href="http://kajapan.org/places/okinawa-fun-in-the-sun-and-so-much-more/" target="_blank">Okinawa</a><br />
<a href="https://innbytheseakamakura.com/" target="_blank">Inn By The Sea - Kamakura</a><br />
Chiba<a href="http://www.splashguesthouse.com/" target="_blank"> - Splash Guest House</a><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-52651058033671470142016-07-06T09:37:00.002+09:002016-07-06T13:39:30.316+09:00What are they reading?<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nKtpPhsnL4Q/V3xSyqasxbI/AAAAAAAAY_w/1SYZdDZptPg/s640/blogger-image--563586436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nKtpPhsnL4Q/V3xSyqasxbI/AAAAAAAAY_w/1SYZdDZptPg/s200/blogger-image--563586436.jpg" width="200" /></a><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Zilla is 8 years old</span></i></div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mega is 5 years old </span></i></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mvE0SdxGuYs/V3xS0o2TLjI/AAAAAAAAY_0/r946fYsE3UM/s640/blogger-image--1761271507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></a>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Reading is so important yet it can be hard to know where to start, when to start and which books to move on the next. Here's an update on how the reading is going at our house.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mega is confident in reading hiragana (one of the Japanese phonetic alphabets) so she reads books and magazines at school as well as the few Japanese books that we have at home. Recently she's been growing in confidence with her English books as she works her way through the <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0439845009" target="_blank">BOB Books </a>series and the Early Reader books that we have. She is enjoying reading to the stuffed </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">animals and preparing to read to her younger cousins when she sees them this summer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mvE0SdxGuYs/V3xS0o2TLjI/AAAAAAAAY_0/r946fYsE3UM/s1600/blogger-image--1761271507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mvE0SdxGuYs/V3xS0o2TLjI/AAAAAAAAY_0/r946fYsE3UM/s200/blogger-image--1761271507.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At bedtime Zilla and Mega each get to choose a book or a chapter to listen to. Mega enjoys the <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/1452118698" target="_blank">Star Wars parody</a> style picture books or a <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0746098545" target="_blank">fairly tale</a>. Reading the "real" fairy tales has been eye-opening for her as she is familiar with the Disney versions and some of the Japanese versions.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Both kids enjoy the "Who was..." series. We are currently reading about </span><a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0448426862" style="font-family: 'helvetica neue', arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Harry Houdini</a><span style="font-family: helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">. I've enjoyed this series as well. It is a great one to use to review before a trip to an art museum or to learn about a famous composer before learning to play one of his songs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Zilla is required to have a "regular books" with him to be read at school He's working on a series of <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/4062194155" target="_blank">Start Wars</a> books for kids.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #bd081c; background-image: url(data:image/svg+xml; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 479px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 310px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #bd081c; background-image: url(data:image/svg+xml; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 479px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 310px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-81100810075283497262016-07-06T09:37:00.001+09:002016-07-06T09:48:17.071+09:00What are they reading?<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nKtpPhsnL4Q/V3xSyqasxbI/AAAAAAAAY_w/1SYZdDZptPg/s640/blogger-image--563586436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nKtpPhsnL4Q/V3xSyqasxbI/AAAAAAAAY_w/1SYZdDZptPg/s200/blogger-image--563586436.jpg" width="200" /></a><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Zilla is 8 years old</span></i></div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mega is 5 years old </span></i></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mvE0SdxGuYs/V3xS0o2TLjI/AAAAAAAAY_0/r946fYsE3UM/s640/blogger-image--1761271507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reading is so important yet it can be hard to know where to start, when to start and which books to move on the next. Here's an update on how the reading is going at our house.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mega is confident in reading hiragana (one of the Japanese phonetic alphabets) so she reads books and magazines at school as well as the few Japanese books that we have at home. Recently she's been growing in confidence with her English books as she works her way through the BOB Book series and the Early Reader books that we have. She is enjoying reading to the stuffed </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">animals and preparing to read to her younger cousins when she sees them this summer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mvE0SdxGuYs/V3xS0o2TLjI/AAAAAAAAY_0/r946fYsE3UM/s1600/blogger-image--1761271507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mvE0SdxGuYs/V3xS0o2TLjI/AAAAAAAAY_0/r946fYsE3UM/s200/blogger-image--1761271507.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At bedtime Zilla and Mega each get to choose a book or a chapter to listen to. Mega enjoys the Star Wars parody style picture books or a fairly tale. Reading the "real" fairy tales has been eye-opening for her as she is familiar with the Disney versions and some of the Japanese versions.</span><br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-58415235411876798952016-06-07T21:44:00.001+09:002016-06-07T21:44:06.028+09:00Dino Night<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Zilla is 8 years old</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mega is 5 years old </span></i></div>
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Often children have a time of strong interest in a topic. Then, a short time later, they've moved on to another topic. For Zilla and Mega there are some topics they repeatedly return to. One of those is dinosaurs. It seems like 2-3 times a year they have a "dinosaur era". Sometimes it is organic (the interest pops into their own minds) and sometimes it is something we present. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cE7Kg5iZOIk/V1a5bFvmBqI/AAAAAAAAY8Y/j9aasnchgsQXyrQKbNKcEyo0qfA0M2UlgCK4B/s1600/IMG_0510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cE7Kg5iZOIk/V1a5bFvmBqI/AAAAAAAAY8Y/j9aasnchgsQXyrQKbNKcEyo0qfA0M2UlgCK4B/s200/IMG_0510.JPG" width="200" /></a>Currently there is a special dinosaur exhibit at one of the science museums in Tokyo. We've visited similar exhibits in the<a href="http://proverbsch22vs6.blogspot.jp/2014/02/day-in-ueno.html" target="_blank"> past</a> and really enjoyed them so we hoped to visit this one as well. Plans came together in such a way that we were able to join an English tour lead by Dr. Manabe, the chief paleontologist at the museum. It was a wonderful chance to see a bit bit behind and scenes as well as talk about all things dinosaur with someone who gets really excited about the topic. They kids enjoyed asking their questions and comparing favorite dinosaurs.</div>
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The kids found out about the tour plan a couple of days before we went. To get ready the got out some of their dinosaur toys as well as the flashcards so they could do some review. </div>
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Recently the kids have enjoyed a TV show on Japanese Netflix call D<a href="http://instantwatcher.com/title/80007912" target="_blank">inosaur King</a>. While not highly educational, it is entertaining and sparks a want to learn more.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CMS-TBDyVKA/V1a5ciEJO6I/AAAAAAAAY8g/b9RSFYl9zfgxcN9Q0W_VgOgBonSXM7FMQCK4B/s1600/IMG_0511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CMS-TBDyVKA/V1a5ciEJO6I/AAAAAAAAY8g/b9RSFYl9zfgxcN9Q0W_VgOgBonSXM7FMQCK4B/s200/IMG_0511.JPG" width="200" /></a>One of the really cool things from this museum visit was the chance to hear from Dr. Coy about his work on a dinosaur skeleton fossil that he discovered. While we've seen fossils before (up close in the Badlands), this was the first "new" dinosaur we've seen up close. He has enjoyed being able to concentrate on this project for hours on end as well as being able to use some of the research tools such as a special MRI for artifacts. He explained how technology is allowing them to see the inside more accurately and without having to fully open up the dinosaur. Also, with computers, comparisons can be made to other fossils and to known animals, allowing them to have a better idea of how the dinosaurs might have fnctioned.</div>
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I know it probably seems strange that a family of creationists would be so into a evolution-based museum exhibit... but in the end we're admiring the same thing. The fact is that dinosaurs existed. The fact is that there is still much to learn about them. We can learn much from the fossils and the research that is being done even if we have different ideas of how the dinosaurs came into being or about how they become extinct. </div>
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Before I forget, here are some links to dinosaur things the kids have particularly enjoyed. Hope you enjoy them too!</div>
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<a href="https://answersingenesis.org/kids/" target="_blank">Kid's Answers</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fandex-Family-Field-Guides-Dinosaurs/dp/0761129766" target="_blank">Dinosaur Fandex</a></div>
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<a href="http://pbskids.org/dinosaurtrain/print/" target="_blank">Dinosaur Train Printables</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/answersvideos" target="_blank">Answers in Genesis Youtube site</a></div>
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<a href="http://creationtoday.org/product/childrens-dinosaur-book-package/" target="_blank">Dinosaur Book Pack</a><br />
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Buddy Davis's Amazing Adventures</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-50757439318599449492016-02-04T20:42:00.001+09:002016-02-04T21:20:34.289+09:00Organizing School PapersAs the new school year approaches many of us are trying to figure out what to do with the 100s of papers that our kids bring home from school.<br />
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Whether you are just starting the school journey, or looking to rework your current organization system, it can't hurt to get a few more ideas!<br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EPUYcfTG2U0/VrM5MQ8UqCI/AAAAAAAAY1k/YtYMgTrRxuk/s640/blogger-image--1191425572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EPUYcfTG2U0/VrM5MQ8UqCI/AAAAAAAAY1k/YtYMgTrRxuk/s200/blogger-image--1191425572.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Over the past few years we have developed a filing system that works well, most of the time. There have only been a few misplaced papers this year so I feel like we've finally figured it out.<br />
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Curious?<br />
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Take a look.<br />
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1. When the kids come home the first thing they do is empty their bags - bentos to the sink, papers to a parent, dirty things to the laundry, etc. The parent's job is to read the notices right away, highlighting important information, and then pin up the papers on the wall. If there isn't time to read them the papers go straight to the wall. Each child has a separate clip. The monthly class calendar stays at the top of the pile for quick reference. The school year calendar is at the back of the pile, also for quick reference. The papers are kept in a high traffic area so they are within easy reach.<br />
The kids each have a zipped file folder for complete homework, worksheets, art projects etc. so those papers go straight to their "completed work" folder and onto the files shelf.<br />
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2. About once a month we go through the hanging papers and move the old ones to a zipped file folder - again, one for each child. If you have more than one kid color coding the clip and file is helpful. As a general guide when we get a new monthly calendar it is time to move the notices from the past month into storage.<br />
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3. Family calendar - having a printed out calendar where the kids can see it will help them to know what is going on. Use it for keeping track of everything, even small things like when a survey needs to go back to school. As the kids learn to read & write they can help by checking it or adding to it on their own. We also keep a shareddigital family calendar with information the parents need. Another helpful thing is to have a shared photo album for the parents which is specifically for photos of important notices. This serves both as a back-up and easy reference when we aren't at home.<br />
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These are the three main things that have made a big difference over the past couple of years.<br />
One other thing we do if have a file box with school handbooks, class lists and other essential info. This box is near the other files so it is handy but separate so it is easy to find the handbook in a rush. During the first year in particular we refer to it often to answer questions that come up.<br />
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At the end of a year I sit down and go through both the school notices file and the homework file, taking out anything that is obviously not needed any longer. Questionable things go into a regular clear file for the following year. Sometimes having the past year's program for a school event can come in handy when making plans for the current year. Also, old kanji review tests can be helpful when studying for kanji tests.<br />
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If you have an organization system for school papers that works for your family please share it in the comments section!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-35392406094905521392016-01-18T11:40:00.001+09:002016-01-18T11:40:57.769+09:00Snow Day LinksStuck at home on a snowy day?<br />
Here are some things to enjoy:<br />
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Vivaldi's Four Seasons - Winter<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nGdFHJXciAQ" width="420"></iframe>
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Ezra Jack Keats - Snowy Day - in English & ASL<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Wtzawp0bd5k" width="560"></iframe>
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Reading Rainbow Snowy Day Stories and Poems<br />
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Treeschoolers - Weather<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-12992847829125348972016-01-18T11:26:00.000+09:002016-01-18T12:23:24.139+09:00Snow Day!<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Zilla is 8 years old</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mega is 5 years old </span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Lesson: </span></span><span style="color: #38761d;">You snooze, you loose!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Since we live in an area that boarders on tropical in summer our winters are pretty mild If we are lucky we'll get 1-2 good snowfalls in winter. The snows may not stay for a full day so if we wake up to the silence and erie glow of a snowy morning we know we need to move quickly so we can enjoy it while it lasts!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Lesson: </span></span><span style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Snow Days are a Blessing</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #141823;">Yes, I'm aware that not everyone sees snow days as a blessing. Yes, they mess with the work and school schedules. They make going anywhere a challenge. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #141823;">At the same time, snow days force us to slow down. To take a break for the normal daily craziness. To spend time doing things we don't always get to do. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #141823;">As annoying as it can be to have upheaval it is also good for us. It helps us not to take things for granted. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #141823;">Snow days are fleeting (here at least) and the kids will be grown and gone before we know it so a snow days is a great family bonding and memory making day!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Before getting into the snow day ideas I have some Dos and Don'ts I'd love to share with the neighbors! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> - Don't ride your bike while holding an umbrella in one hand on a snowy/slushy/icy road.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">- Do wear proper shoes on a snowy day.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> - Don't try to shovel with a broom and dust pan, especially when it isn't powder snow.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">- Do get a small shovel so you can make a safe walking space in front of your house.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> - Don't leave home without checking to see if you can get to where you want to go.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">- Do make the most of the extra time at home if you can't get out.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, here is how we spend a snow day.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Wake up</i> - Listen to the silence. Stay in bed and just be. Have the kids listen and identify what sounds different.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Check e-mail </i>- Our schools e-mail delay and cancellation notices</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>"Home Snow School" </i>starts at from 7 am, earlier if there has been a lot of snow. I hope my neighbors appreciate the restraint I show by keeping the kids in till 7AM! ;-)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Home Snow School Lesson 1 :Preparation is Key</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I must admit that I sometimes rush this step and usually end up regretting that. With the impending change from snow to rain we're rather anxious to get outside as quickly as possible. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One thing we do is<i> prepare something warm to eat & drink</i> when we come in. <a href="http://proverbsch22vs6.blogspot.jp/2015/10/breakfast-on-their-own.html" target="_blank">Blueberry muffins</a> are easy to throw together & pop in the oven. I also prepare a thermos of hot cocoa for the kids at a drinkable temperature.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Another thing to do is <i>have a warm bath waiting.</i> The wet/rainy/slushy/sloppy snow will chill a body faster than lovely fluffy snow. Kids are especially susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite as they can tolerate a lot when they are too busy having fun to notice!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One other essential preparation is to <i>have the genkan (entry area) ready for wetness</i>. We put away all the extra shoes, have hangers ready for wet snow gear and towels for wiping off so we don't drip all the way to the bathroom.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If I remember we'll also have extra gloves sitting in the genkan so it is easy to put on a dry pair when the current pair gets soaked (<-- completely="" font="" forgot="" that="" today=""><!------><!------><!------></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Home Snow School Lesson 2 : Shoveling Basics - Safety Before Fun</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hoRlMXleomU/Vpw3j-eJd1I/AAAAAAAAY0s/hyl6iNaFwPI/s640/blogger-image-964779451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hoRlMXleomU/Vpw3j-eJd1I/AAAAAAAAY0s/hyl6iNaFwPI/s200/blogger-image-964779451.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Since we live on a key intersection where many people turn to go to the station <i>the first thing we do is make a path on the road for the commuters to use</i>. The snow here tends to be very wet and heavy. It is not unusual to have a layer of ice below or above the snow. Combine that with people who aren't used to snow and it is a recipe for disaster. While shoveling this morning we noticed that most people didn't have on proper snow boots. That was a teachable moment about how to dress in snowy/slushy weather. The kids also discovered how quickly a wet pair of gloves can become too cold to wear and that it is rather slippery to walk where the road has not been cleared.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i> The 2nd shoveling task is to clear the drainage areas</i>. When the snow starts to melt it will make little floods and possibly freeze, covering the road with slick ice, if the water can't get into the drains. Often we have a day like today where the snow quickly turns to rain and makes a slushy mess since the water can't drain.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Home Snow School Lesson 3 : You know you come from a snowy area when you are the only family on the street with snow shovels or snow toys.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The past couple of years our shoveling or the road has been rewarded with snacks from the neighbors. While I appreciate their token of appreciation I really want to kids to get the idea that we shovel because we can, not because we get snacks. We have shovels, able bodies and time therefore it is something we can do to be of service to our neighbors. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Of course there is the added benefit in that we love to shovel and that shoveling makes bigger snow piles to play in.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We all love playing in the snow. The quest for the perfect snow angel is like the quest for a prefect wave when surfing. The competition to build the greatest snow man is one that can lead to hours of hard work. Snowball target practice can't be beat, unless you are the target!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After a warm lunch and a some time to dry off we'll curl up for a nice movie & some popcorn in the afternoon as it is usually rainy by then. If it isn't raining we'll head out again to enjoy the last bit of snow on our snow day. In the evening we'll have a round out touch-up shoveling if needed and an early bedtime as the kids are exhausted! (parents too...)</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D2433885563810792349%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2F-hoRlMXleomU%2FVpw3j-eJd1I%2FAAAAAAAAY0s%2Fhyl6iNaFwPI%2Fs200%2Fblogger-image-964779451.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=HgQ9MqMKvqKE&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 479px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1167px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-78943802201237191382016-01-08T13:12:00.000+09:002016-01-08T13:19:01.063+09:00Salad Success!<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Zilla is 8 years old</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mega is 5 years old </span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Lesson: </span></span><span style="color: #38761d;">Watch shows with healthy recipes for inspiration!</span></div>
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During Winter Break we've had some time for channel surfing and relaxing. The kids have seen recipes they would like to try on a few cooking shows. However, we often are missing key ingredients. Zilla latched onto the idea of a spinach strawberry chicken wrap but as our local stores don't sell tortilla shells (and I don't have time today to make them) we had to find an alternative way to serve it.<br />
If I had suggested to the kids that they should eat a spinach salad they would have said "no". However, since it is their idea, they were willing to give it a try!<br />
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So, we have a new Zilla approved recipe!<br />
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Before I forget how I made it I'm going to write it down. <br />
If you make this with your own twist please share that in the comments. We'd love to try some other variations!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lxq20tsU_PQ/Vo8tc9BeukI/AAAAAAAAYz4/nj9Gztqa-q8/s640/blogger-image--466222543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lxq20tsU_PQ/Vo8tc9BeukI/AAAAAAAAYz4/nj9Gztqa-q8/s200/blogger-image--466222543.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<div>
<u>Ingredients:</u><br />
Fresh Spinach - 1 bunch (250-500g maybe?)<br />
Skinless Chicken breast - 6oz. (200g)<br />
Strawberries - 1/2-1cup<br />
<a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/rachelysanders/how-to-make-the-best-granola-ever#.vqaOkooeq" target="_blank">Homemade Granola</a> - 1/4 cup<br />
<a href="http://jp.iherb.com/Annie-s-Naturals-Lite-Honey-Mustard-Vinaigrette-8-fl-oz-236-ml/31683" target="_blank">Honey Mustard Vinaigrette</a> dressing<br />
<br />
<u>Directions:</u><br />
1. Wash, dry and cut/rip the spinach into bite size pieces.<br />
2. Cut the chicken breast into 3 oz sections (about the size & thickness of a deck of cards). Fry it in a frying pan, seasoned lightly with salt & pepper.<br />
3. Wash and slice the strawberries<br />
4. Toss the spinach and strawberries with 1-2 tbsp of dressing.<br />
5. Cut the chicken into bite size pieces.<br />
6. Add chicken and granola to the top of the salad. Sprinkle with a little more dressing.<br />
7. Eat & Enjoy!<br />
<br />
A few things to consider...<br />
- The granola I made this time had a cup of chopped almonds and a 1/2 cup of flax seed so it had a nice nutty flavor.<br />
- Other vinaigrette dressings would probably work well.<br />
- This could work well as a mason jar salad or make-ahead salad where you add the dressing, and maybe the berries, just before eating.<br />
- Next time we have tortillas we'll surely try this as a wrap!</div>
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<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-31739918280458098382015-12-07T19:55:00.000+09:002016-01-18T10:14:15.480+09:00Keeping Up English At Home - 1st Grade<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>One of the ongoing discussion in nearly every international parents group that I'm a part of includes the question of </i></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>"How do I keep up my child's English?"</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>There are many families like our which are raising bilingual/multilingual children in a place where English is a minority language. This means it is not the community or school language. During the baby/toddler/preschool years language is mostly something you hear and repeat, which makes it easy to reach "native level" or "fluent level". However, as the child gets older, the challenge increases exponentially. In this series of posts I'll share what had worked for us with the hope of inspiring others to give it a go.</i></span><br />
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<br />
First grade is a time of many changes and challenges. New school, new schedule, new responsibilities... One of the things that helped provide stability for Zilla during the transition was our English homework time. Since he was used to having this time it was something comfortable and expected.<br />
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<br />
As the year went on we did have less and less time for English study so I had to adjust the plan to fit with the amount of time and energy that Zilla had.<br />
<br />
We started the year with a goal of doing 3 things each day - a writing activity, a reading activity and a math activity.<br />
<br />
The reading activity focused mainly on phonics. We found the <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0439865417" target="_blank">Bob Book series</a> to be perfect as it is graded readers. Each book is small so I could slip a couple in my purse to read together on the train to/from school.<br />
<br />
The motivation for the math activity was twofold. The first was to continue the math Zilla had been doing previously (montessori based with some Kumon mixed in). The second was to give him the English vocabulary needed for math along with the English/American style of math. In the end we only did math about half the year, until he finished the <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0761178090" target="_blank">Star Wars 2nd Grade Math</a> book was completed because he needed more time for the school math and he had a good grasp on the vocabulary.<br />
<br />
The area Zilla dislikes the most and incidentally struggles with the most is writing. Perhaps this is because it requires so much practice? Or because he was studying 3 other writing systems at school? When a child is really not interested it becomes part of the teacher's job to create interest. The thing that caught his attention and held it to the point that he was able to get over the wall that he had been up against was the <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0761178112" target="_blank">Star Wars Writing Skills</a> book. After that we could move on to other writing exercises.<br />
<br />
There are many great books and activities to choose from. Each child's area of interest will differ as will the area which needs a little more attention. It is ok to slow down, speed up or change courses as needed. We have gone through times where it was fun to work on English together, and times where it was very frustrating. It is all part of the process.<br />
<br />
So, if you're headed down the same path and want some more ideas click on over to the <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22?node=91&page=1" target="_blank">Amazon.jp store </a>for links to other books and activities we've enjoyed and found useful!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-50790559336241134802015-11-11T17:57:00.001+09:002015-11-11T18:02:33.103+09:00Setting up a Child's Room in Earthquake Country<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Q. How do you set up a child's room in a small house in an earthquake prone area?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>A. Very carefully! </i></div>
Luckily for us many of the items used to make a room safe for little kids are the same items that we need for earthquake preparedness.<br />
<br />
This topic comes up from time-to-time. It is something I also wondered about and tried my best to do at our house so I'll share what I've learned.<br />
<br />
On 3/11 (large earthquake in Japan) my baby and toddler were napping in my bed, upstairs, when the quake hit. Even though we were far from the epicenter the quake was strong enough to give our area a good shake. I was downstairs when the quake started and upstairs with the kids when it intensified. I don't remember going up the stairs but I must have flown!<br />
<br />
Here are some things you can do to prepare a child's room (and any room for that matter) with earthquakes in mind.<br />
<br />
1. Have as little furniture in the room as possible.<br />
Many quake related injuries in Japan are from falling items. The homes and apartments here are built pretty well but that won't stop them from shaking. If you can, don't have dressers, bookshelves and other heavy pieces of furniture in a room used for sleeping.<br />
When placing things on shelves keep in mind the kind of damage they could to if they fall off. We try to have heavy items on bottom shelves and lighter ones on top shelves.<br />
<br />
2. Brace the furniture that is in the room<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VShumf79vck/VkMA8ecaXlI/AAAAAAAAYxI/6MmJwX60w5k/s1600/shelfbrace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VShumf79vck/VkMA8ecaXlI/AAAAAAAAYxI/6MmJwX60w5k/s200/shelfbrace.jpg" width="200" /></a>There are <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/B000S6KT52" target="_blank">poles (braces)</a> that can be used to help stop dressers and bookshelves from tipping over. There are also<a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/B00RG5LRWW" target="_blank"> plastic strips</a> and <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/B004GN8IXS" target="_blank">non-skid pads</a> that can go under pieces of furniture.<br />
<br />
3. Consider sleeping on futon.<br />
Since futon is on the floor there is no danger of falling out of bed.<br />
<br />
4. Be aware of glass.<br />
Lamps, windows and other items can crack or shatter in a quake. <br />
We chose a lamp made of strong plastic that was pretty durable. It holds up well when the kids accidentally knock it down so I feel confident it won't break if knocked over by a quake. <br />
The ceiling light fixture should also be looked at. While most are fastened with a back-up hook to prevent falling in the case of a quake, I try not to have a glass fixture in the sleeping rooms. If the place you are living is not your own you may not have any control in this area but I'll address that in the next point.<br />
Check the windows. Sometimes there are already shatter proof window panes in sleeping rooms. In older places like ours that is not the case. There are <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/B00KCGFYA8" target="_blank">plastic sheets </a>which can be used to line windows so if they crack the glass does not shatter all over the room.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zzTmVK8ekZw/VkMA8iJy5uI/AAAAAAAAYxM/4pWiYlEV6pQ/s1600/babyproof.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zzTmVK8ekZw/VkMA8iJy5uI/AAAAAAAAYxM/4pWiYlEV6pQ/s200/babyproof.jpg" width="200" /></a>5. Arrange the room wisely.<br />
Sometimes there are things you can't change like light fixtures or needing a dresser in the room. When that is the case think about how things might move in a quake.<br />
For example, if a dresser or bookshelf fell over would it hit a space that someone is sleeping in? If a light fixture seems potentially unsafe, don't have someone sleep directly below it.<br />
<br />
6. Keep shoes/slippers handy.<br />
If there is a strong quake and things fall it can be dangerous to walk around even inside the home. Having thick soled shoes or slippers near by for both kids and adults can save you from accidentally stepping on something while checking to see if everyone is ok. Our house slippers are <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/B001V7Z27W" target="_blank">crocs-like clogs</a>.<br />
<br />
Here are some simulations of what can happen inside during an earthquake.<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1LlEUHFrg0" target="_blank">Earthquake Test: Bedroom</a> Simulation<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yoqK3P_gEXs" target="_blank">Shaking Effects</a> Simulation<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7gde8KOLJU" target="_blank">Bedroom with anchored furniture</a><br />
<br />
One of the things that we have from the 3/11 quake is a lot of footage of the quake happening. It gives us a chance to look inside real homes to see how things may moved with a strong quake. There is much to be learned here but these can also be difficult to watch, especially for those who have experienced a strong quake.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEb7SBwN_no" target="_blank">During a real quake</a> (Warning: may be hard to watch)<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McjIOGWmTTk" target="_blank">News report with real footage</a> (Warning: may be hard to watch)<br />
<br />
Here are links to other pages with more earthquake preparation information:<br />
<a href="http://www.metro.tokyo.jp/ENGLISH/GUIDE/BOSAI/" target="_blank">Tokyo Disaster Preparedness Manual</a><br />
<a href="http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/earthquake" target="_blank">American Red Cross Earthquake Preparedness</a><br />
<a href="http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/" target="_blank">CDC Earthquakes</a><br />
<br />
Check out the <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22?_encoding=UTF8&node=87" target="_blank">Amazon.co.jp store page </a>for some more earthquake preparation items.<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-11871826458401756522015-10-18T16:22:00.002+09:002016-01-08T13:13:27.376+09:00Breakfast on the Their Own<div>
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One of the great things about the kids getting bigger and becoming more independent is that they can sometimes give us (parents) a bit of a break.<br />
Sunday at our house are crazy with everyone getting ready for church in their own way. The kids usually get ready pretty quickly and then are ready for breakfast when the rest of us aren't ready. I've been trying various ideas for breakfast foods that they like and easily serve themselves without making a mess. Last night I wiped up these blueberry muffins and they were a real hit!<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
Blueberry Muffins (original recipe)</div>
<a href="http://www.inspiredtaste.net/18982/our-favorite-easy-blueberry-muffin-recipe/">http://www.inspiredtaste.net/18982/our-favorite-easy-blueberry-muffin-recipe/</a><br />
<br />
Heat oven to 200 C<br />
<br />
My variation (measurement based on US cup size)<br />
Dry ingredients - whisk together in bowl<br />
1 1/2 cups of flour - this time was 1 cup of bread flour, 1/2 cup of almond flour<br />
1/2 cup light brown sugar,<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp cinnamon<br />
<br />
<br />
Wet ingredients - whisk together in large measuring cup<br />
1/3 cup grape oil<br />
1 large egg<br />
1/3 – 1/2 cup (80 ml – 120 ml) milk (add to oil and egg to fill to 1 cup line)<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />
<br />
Mix the wet ingredients into the dry. Be careful not to over mix. Just mix it until the dry ingredients are damp.<br />
<br />
Add 1 cup of blueberries<br />
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Pour into 12 muffin paper liners, bake 20 min.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-238261440689328112015-10-16T10:22:00.001+09:002015-10-16T10:33:42.374+09:00Dresden Philharmonic Children's Choir in Tokyo<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">#LittleLuther joined us for a special concert of the Dresden Philharmonic Children's Choir at Tokyo Center Lutheran Church earlier this week. </span>It was wonderful to hear them sing in a number of languages and with various styles. Zilla and Mega had fun trying to guess which language each song was in. The kids couldn't choose just one favorite song but I think the Festival Sanctus by John Leavitt was my favorite.<br />
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<br /></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Would you like to have a listen? Check out <a href="http://www.dresdnerphilharmonie.de/choere/philharmonischer-kinderchor/blog" target="_blank">Der Philharmonische Kinderchor Dresden</a> on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUqqtfI2IgOkcprsZtWtCA" target="_blank">youtube</a> or on iTunes.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
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#Luther500<br />
#nrkluther500</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-2266185978963336382015-10-16T07:00:00.000+09:002015-10-16T07:00:00.096+09:00Tooth Fairy or Throwing Teeth? 5 Fav. Tooth Books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We've had some interesting adventures with loosing teeth. The most recent was Zilla having a tooth come out just as the plane we were on headed down the runway to take off. It was a bit or a surprise and with hankies, tissues and other helpful items stowed in the carry-on baggage we were in a bit of a pinch. Also, where do you put a tooth when you are on a plane for the next 12 hours or so? Also, how does the tooth fairy make a visit on an overnight flight?<br />
<br />
Thankfully I had a small bag handy for the tooth and Zilla doesn't believe in the tooth fairy... but he did still ask if he could have some money!<br />
<br />
We have a number of tooth themed books that we enjoy from time to time. Here are out 5 favorites!<br />
<br />
<br />
1. <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0618152385" target="_blank">Throw Your Tooth on the Roof</a>: Tooth Traditions from Around the World by Selby Beeler<br />
2. <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0375824928" target="_blank">The Tooth Book</a> by Dr. Seuss<br />
3. <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0394848365" target="_blank">The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist</a> by Stan & Jan Berenstain<br />
4. <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0698114019" target="_blank">Bill and Pete Go Down the Nile</a> by Tomie dePaola <br />
5. <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/1406305324" target="_blank">Maisy, Charley and the Wobbly Tooth</a> By Lucy CousinsUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-81271312689431245742015-10-15T19:19:00.004+09:002015-10-15T19:23:30.923+09:00Novel Ideas<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Zilla is 8 years old </span></div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mega is 5 years old</span></div>
<br />
⭐️ At what age is a child ready to listen to a chapter book?<br />
⭐️ At what age can a child read a chapter book?<br />
⭐️ What are some good chapter books to start with?<br />
⭐️ How can I feed the reading habit without breaking the bank?<br />
<br />
Reading to your child is one of <a href="http://www.med.umich.edu/yourchild/topics/reading.htm" target="_blank">the most important things</a> you can do. It is not only good bonding time but also great for a child's development. Thankfully there are many excellent books to help make reading fun!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YkiJmM2zN8/Vh99j3UwvqI/AAAAAAAAYwM/zD2SaHE6uEs/s1600/ReadingCorner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YkiJmM2zN8/Vh99j3UwvqI/AAAAAAAAYwM/zD2SaHE6uEs/s200/ReadingCorner.jpg" width="200" /></a>On this blog some of our favorite books can be found under the labels <a href="http://proverbsch22vs6.blogspot.jp/search/label/Books%20%E6%9C%AC" target="_blank">Books</a> and <a href="http://proverbsch22vs6.blogspot.jp/search/label/Great%20Books" target="_blank">Great Books</a> (how imaginative, right?). There are <a href="http://proverbsch22vs6.blogspot.jp/search/label/Bilingual%20Books%20J%2FE%20%E3%83%90%E3%82%A4%E3%83%AA%E3%83%B3%E3%82%AC%E3%83%AB%E6%9C%AC%E3%80%80%E6%97%A5%2F%E8%8B%B1" target="_blank">Japanese/English Bilingual Books</a> listed as well.<br />
<br />
With this post I'm going to start a new section with suggestions for chapter books. Making the first foray into reading chapter books can be a bit daunting but it doesn't have to be. There is no best time or way to introduce them but here are some general ideas.<br />
<br />
⭐️ At what age is a child ready to listen to a chapter book?<br />
Anytime is ok. However, I've found the kids to develop more interest in following a long story line from around 3/4 years old.<br />
We took the dive into reading a chapter to two at bedtime each day when Zilla was 5 yrs old and Mega was 2. At first Mega fell asleep most nights before the chapter was over but in time she began to stay awake and ask questions which showed she was trying to follow the story.<br />
<br />
⭐️ At what age can a child read a chapter book?<br />
This will depend greatly on the child's reading ability and interest level. There are many great first chapter books series. Some are books written specifically for beginning readers, others are simplified versions of classic novels. Finding a theme / topic that the child is interested in is key.<br />
<br />
⭐️ What are some good chapter books to start with?<br />
Mega and Zilla are currently hooked on the <a href="http://www.boxcarchildren.com/content.cfm/boxcar-children-books" target="_blank">Boxcar Children</a>. We just finished book 13 <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/B00BBPW7OK" target="_blank">Snowbound Mystery</a>. In between each Boxcar Children book we read a different book so we are able to keep enjoying a variety of books while also following some of our favorite characters as they solve various mysteries.<br />
Other books we're read recently are the <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0060754281" target="_blank">Little House on the Praire series</a>, <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/B00T64T764" target="_blank">Charlotte's Web</a>, and <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0375875255" target="_blank">Swiss Family Robinson</a>. Do you see a movie/book theme going on here? We enjoy watching the movie after reading the book. Comparing the book and movie makes for some interesting discussions!<br />
On our shelf of books waiting to be read we have <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0142402249" target="_blank">Snow Treasure</a>, <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0547328613" target="_blank">Island of the Blue Dolphins</a>, <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0141312424" target="_blank">My Side of the Mountain</a> and <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0064409392" target="_blank">Chronicles of Narnia</a>.<br />
<br />
⭐️ How can I feed the reading habit without breaking the bank?<br />
It can get expensive quickly if your child gets hooked on reading. Here are a few affordable options to explore!<br />
- Local library & Inter-Library Loan - While our local libraries don't have books in English we can get some through the inter library loan system. You never know what books your library may have access to is you don't ask!<br />
- E-books (iBooks has a Boxcar Children Box set of 1-12 at a great price!) have saved us a lot on both purchasing price and shelf space! Many of the older classics have versions that can be downloaded & read for free.<br />
- Book swaps - Whether in person or online swapping books is a great way to share the joy of reading! Check out <a href="http://bookmooch.com/">Bookmooch.com</a><br />
- <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22?node=83&page=4" target="_blank">Amazon</a> and other online shops often offer books at reasonable prices. Since we don7t have English books in local stores Amazon has become a vary valuable resource!<br />
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Need some more book suggestions? Check out these lists.<br />
<a href="https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/50-books-all-kids-should-read-before-theyre-12" target="_blank">50 Books Before 12 </a><br />
<a href="http://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/newberymedal/newberymedal" target="_blank">Newbery Medal</a><br />
<a href="http://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/wildermedal/wilderpast" target="_blank">Wilder Medal (for Authors/Illustrators)</a><br />
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Tell us you favorite chapter books in the comments below!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-58720503956960258552015-10-14T07:47:00.001+09:002015-10-14T08:17:40.549+09:00Oregon Trail RutsOne of the coolest things we saw this summer was ruts along the Oregon Trail.<br />
Like so many of my generation I grew up playing <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQh_NIxryKI" target="_blank">Oregon Trail</a> on the <a href="http://www.virtualapple.org/oregontraildisk.html" target="_blank">Apple IIGS</a>. It took a story from the history books and made it come alive. For many of us it was the first computer game that pulled at us emotionally. We learned the names of the key locations, struggled with the decision of what supplies to buy and felt crushed when fording the river didn't go well.<br />
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During our journey last summer we had a few times we were near the Oregon trail but the one that stands out in our memories is the <a href="http://www.nps.gov/oreg/planyourvisit/site7.htm" target="_blank">Oregon Trail Ruts</a> in Wyoming. Being able to walk a bit of the trail, feel the sun beating down, see the open plains... it made it easy to imagine we were in the same place at a different time!<br />
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This trip across the plains was also a great time to talk with the kids about various aspects of history and human nature. There were many unknowns, misconceptions and mistakes made. If we can learn from those things we can have a better future. It was also a time of great perseverance, creativity and faith.<br />
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Here are some of the books about the pioneer life that we've enjoyed!<br />
The <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0060754281" target="_blank">Little House on the Prairie</a> Series<br />
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<a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/0375811206" target="_blank">Lewis and Clark: A Prairie Dog for the President</a><br />
<a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22/detail/B004EPZ0W0" target="_blank">Adventure to a Pioneer Prairie! </a><br />
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Little Luther had a bit of a decision...<br />
Head west to the great state of Oregon or follow the trail back east to St. Louis, to meet up with some friends.<br />
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What has your #LittleLuther been up to?</div>
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#Luther500 </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-15039069252481169232015-10-10T18:27:00.003+09:002015-10-10T19:46:11.194+09:00Knitting Out To Sea<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Instead of thing of gender appropriate toys and activities why not provide the opportunity for kids to try everything and watch to see what speaks to their heart?</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-80309840629847893392015-10-10T18:27:00.001+09:002015-10-10T19:40:22.883+09:00Little Luther - A Junior Ranger<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Little Luther accompanied us to Rocky Mountain National Park last summer where he hiked to Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, drove the Trail Ridge Road and enjoyed seeing all the wonders God created. He also worked with the kids on earning a Junior Ranger badge!</div>
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What has your #LittleLuther been up to?</div>
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#Luther500 </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-31508076821835331782015-10-03T08:25:00.001+09:002016-01-08T13:13:42.923+09:00Favorite Fall Treat - Pear Bread<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="http://dcehoudini.blogspot.jp/2008/12/pear-bread.html" style="color: #66cc66; text-decoration: none;">Pear Bread</a></h3>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_aheu59zmuYk/STUda3Z4NpI/AAAAAAAAEcE/AtGrh08KGmc/s1600-h/pearbread.jpg" style="color: #66cc66; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275154885920700050" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_aheu59zmuYk/STUda3Z4NpI/AAAAAAAAEcE/AtGrh08KGmc/s200/pearbread.jpg" style="border: none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 150px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; position: relative; width: 200px;" /></a>One of the things we love in the fall is pears but they tend to rot within days of buying them. Oh, and they cost over a dollar each. Even with the these problems I still can't resist buying them!<br />
In my search for a good use for the pears I have I came across this recipe. Zilla, Mega and I love it! </div>
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Next time you have a few pears sitting around why not give it a shot?<br />
~ Houdini<br />
p.s. thick pieces are better to stop the slices from falling apart.<br />
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Pear Bread<br />
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INGREDIENTS<br />
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar<br />
3 eggs<br />
3 1/2 cups pears - peeled, cored and chopped<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />
3 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 teaspoon baking powder<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg<br />
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DIRECTIONS<br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease two 8x4 inch loaf pans.<br />
In large mixing bowl combine sugar and eggs, beat well. Stir in pears and vanilla. In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir dry ingredients into the pear mixture; mix well. Pour batter into prepared loaf pans<br />
Bake in preheated oven for 60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a loaf comes out clean. Allow loaves to cool in pans for 10 minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely. (I like it hot but be careful because the pear chunks are scalding hot!)</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-21429339700596421472015-09-13T15:10:00.001+09:002015-10-10T18:57:38.399+09:00Rocky Mountain National Park<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F2GyNFjHxjg/VfUTYmiL3yI/AAAAAAAAYuU/v3vyZEIrUzk/s640/blogger-image-293549117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F2GyNFjHxjg/VfUTYmiL3yI/AAAAAAAAYuU/v3vyZEIrUzk/s200/blogger-image-293549117.jpg" width="200" /></a>This summer we went on a journey in the U.S. One of the places we enjoyed visiting was Rocky Mountain National Park. The area is spectacular!<br />
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Favorite memories are hiking up to Dream Lake & Emerald Lake, seeing moose up close as Lily Lake, and the great views along Ridge Line Road.<br />
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While at the park the kids really enjoyed the<a href="http://www.nps.gov/romo/learn/kidsyouth/beajuniorranger.htm" target="_blank"> Junior Ranger</a> program.<br />
Working on the activity books was a great way to help the kids to understand so much. It also helped them to become more aware of flora, fauna and wildlife. Be sure to check out the info on the <a href="http://www.nps.gov/romo/learn/kidsyouth/index.htm" target="_blank">kid's site </a>if you are headed to RMNP!<br />
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We also found some really great books to enjoy while visiting the park like<a href="http://astore.amazon.co.jp/koto00-22?node=82&page=1" target="_blank"> The Mystery in the Rocky Mountains, </a><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433885563810792349.post-78511438019448893712015-07-28T10:36:00.000+09:002015-07-28T10:36:00.234+09:00Creativity Reigns<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Zilla is 7 years old </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mega is 5 years old
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Lesson: Creativity Reigns!</span></span></div>
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For many reasons we have very few electronic toys. The kids get nearly no iPad time and they don't have videos games. They know these things exist but are very happy with boxes, yarn and legos. </div>
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In a recent cleaning spree I came across one of our old laptops that no longer works. Since the kids don't get computer time I thought they may enjoy the old laptop.<br />
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Their creativity is stronger than the power cord. Even without the laptop turning they still enjoy "playing" computer games. Listening to them play you'd never know the thing no longer turns on! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0